When disaster hits unexpectedly, what is our weapon of defense? How do we find peace in the midst of the storms that keep coming?
My uncle in Peru gives the answer. As is the norm in South American countries, home mortgages are rare. The way folks purchase homes is by paying cash. My uncle retired and was about to see his dream come true by building a home on the beach.
Since he had saved enough funds, his routine was to visit his local bank and withdraw cash to pay the construction crew. But, on his last visit, he arrived home with the cash safely stored in his brief case. As he drew near the front door, he noticed two men racing by on a motorcycle.
He proceeded to open the door when he heard a shot. Then a loud, “Your money.”
Instantly, he put his plan into action. Rather than go into panic, he pretended to open the door, but instead, he reached in his brief case, pulled out his 48-caliber, spun and shot the assailants.
They fired three more shots, striking him on various parts of his body. But as he fired his gun, they dashed off in the motorcycle. Wounded and about to collapse, he managed to retrieve his cell and call for help. Once he was in the hospital, his son, who is a physician, took charge. My uncle is fine now and fully recovered.
No money was taken; instead, he gained a new perception and appreciation for life.
When I read the details, I sighed. Sure wish I inherited his genes and quick thinking. Oh no! Not to own guns or fire them. But to be quick to retaliate when the enemy sneaks behind me to rob my peace and confidence.
We all have been there. Adversity, a storm or bad news surprise us when we least expect it, and we shake, feeling threatened and vulnerable. And feeling alone, we find the enemy is pointing his spiritual weapon right at us, trying to rob our peace. Without hesitation, he fires fear, desperation and panic.
Like my uncle, we need to have the best weapon stored in the briefcase of our heart. The Bible says in Ephesians 6:10 we need to put on the armor of God. This armor includes the best weapon, the most effective defense, which is the sword of the Word of God. The power we have from which we draw strength, courage and boldness.
And with holy boldness, you too, can say: Spiritual assailants may come at me, “But I will sing of your power; I will sing aloud of Your lovingkindness in the morning, for You have been my refuge and escape in the day of my trouble” (Ps. 59:16).
Father, though times of trouble come at me, help me to face them with the weapon of your Word. Grant me an alert mind to remember that you and you alone are my fortress against the one who tries to rob my peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
What brings peace in the midst of your storms?
Janet Perez Eckles is an international speaker and author of four books. She helps thousands conquer fear and bring back joy.
This article originally appeared at janetperezeckles.com.
Shawn Akers 
Abby Trivett